D-ZAJN gives compact hotel rooms new breath of fresh air in Ghent

The smallest details make the biggest difference in the experience of a hotel room. From the texture of the fabrics to the smell in the air: every element contributes to the atmosphere. Even the managers of Astoria Hotel, one of the last family hotels in Ghent, know this. Its central location, close to Gent-Sint-Pieters Station, makes the three-star hotel popular with business people. To redesign some of the smaller rooms, the owners relied on design agency D-ZAJN. Using light sand colours, soft textures and furniture in Master Oak, they gave the compact rooms a spacious feel.

The Astoria Hotel has about 30 rooms and is operated by the daughter and son of the founders. Service is warm and personal. Some of the smaller rooms could use an upgrade. A feast for the mouths of leading Ostend-based design agency D-ZAJN. Managing director and interior designer Julie Dereu: "A number of rooms still had built-in cupboards around the bed. That takes up a lot of space and is also extra cleaning work. I was asked to make the rooms more airy and maintenance-friendly."

Originally, the owners wanted to work with hard colours, but in a small room they can be very clashing. Julie: "The sandy colour and texture we settled on give a homely touch and make the room seem lighter and more spacious. Working with a light grain also gives the room something sensory. The combination with the light wood results in a cosy atmosphere. That's not just my opinion: visitors to Astoria Hotel say the same."

To give the rooms a second breath, they were completely gutted. Electricity, curtains, lighting and furniture were removed. Only the recently renovated bathroom was allowed to remain. To limit sound transmission to surrounding rooms, the techniques were not cut into the wall but hidden behind a false wall. That wall runs behind the bed and ends with indirect lighting at eye level. An original way to evoke an intimate atmosphere and at the same time a very practical solution. 

"It was a challenge to accommodate all the requirements of a three-star hotel in such a compact room," admits Julie. "For example, there has to be a desk in every hotel room. We made a piece of furniture in Master Oak, a high-quality laminate, next to the bed. The wardrobe and minibar were also given the same finish. It was puzzling with the furniture. Fortunately, I am now experienced in designing small rooms."

There was an immediate click with the hotel managers. Important if you want to move quickly, which is often the case in the hospitality sector. "After presenting a mood board to my clients, I make several designs. I give some options and see what appeals most to them. Especially with new clients, this is an important part of the process. On this project, we went from design to requesting samples and scheduling contractors in just a month. At D-ZAJN, we have the experience and contacts to get to an efficient realisation quickly."

The success of the design is not only evidenced by the enthusiastic response from hotel guests. Meanwhile, Julie is working on the design for a suite, which should be ready before the summer. "Interior design in hotels is not only about following trends, but also about creating timeless spaces that remain relevant and leave a lasting impression on guests," she concludes.